What is anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are conditions in which anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. Symptoms can interfere with daily activities, such as performance at work, school and relationships between people.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:

Generalized anxiety disorder: People with this disorder worry about common problems such as health, money, work and family. But their worries are excessive and they have them almost every day for at least 6 months.

Panic disorder: People with panic disorder suffer from panic attacks. These are sudden and repeated moments of intense fear without any apparent danger. Attacks occur quickly and can last for several minutes or more

Phobias: People with phobias have an intense fear of something that poses little or no real danger. Your fear can be from spiders, flying, going to crowded places or being in social situations (known as social anxiety)

What causes anxiety disorders?

The cause of anxiety is not known. Factors such as genetics, biology and chemistry of the brain, stress and its environment can play a role.

Who is at risk of having anxiety disorders?

The risk factors for different types of anxiety disorders may vary. For example, generalized anxiety disorder and phobias are more common in women, but social anxiety affects men and women alike. There are some general risk factors for all types of anxiety disorders, including:

Certain personality traits, such as being shy or withdrawn when you are in new situations or meet new people

Traumatic events in early childhood or adulthood

Family history of anxiety or other mental disorders

Some physical health conditions, such as thyroid problems or arrhythmia

What are the symptoms of anxiety disorders?

Different types of anxiety disorders may have different symptoms. But they all show a combination of:

Anxiety thoughts or beliefs that are difficult to control: They make you feel restless and tense and interfere with your daily life. They don’t disappear and can get worse over time.

Physical symptoms, such as strong or fast heartbeats, unexplained pains and pains, dizziness and shortness of breath

Changes in behavior, such as avoiding the daily activities I used to do

The use of caffeine, other substances and certain medications can worsen your symptoms.